As the flagship sedan in Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) range, the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon R-Line 4Motion deserves the best and that’s now the case as it’s been updated with IQ.Drive technology. The bump in equipment also sees the pricing bumped up to RM 301,012.

This sees the sole Arteon variant here now packing Front Assist and adaptive cruise control together with a wireless charging port for added convenience.

Under the hood and shell, performance figures remain unchanged. That sees the EA888 2.0-litre TSI turbocharged four-cylinder deliver the same 280 PS and 350 Nm of torque. It’s paired with a 7-speed wet clutch DSG.

Power goes to the 4Motion all-wheel drive system that is capable of distributing power to the rear wheels for better traction when required and runs an Electronic Different Lock (XDS) up front to improve traction and reduces understeer.

It’ll do the century dash in 5.6-second and returns a claimed fuel efficiency of 7.4l / 100 km.

Inside, the Arteon houses the R-Line silver trims and a new steering wheel. Information is easily accessible via the 11.7-inch digital instrument cluster and 9.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system that carries Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity with voice or gesture control.

A Harman Kardon 700-watt audio system complements the luxurious interior with 12 perfectly placed speakers for vibrant acoustics.

On the exterior, it retains the Dynamic Cornering Lights and LED 3D taillights with sequential turn signals.

Safety remains standard as well. That comprises the aforementioned Front Assist that essentially monitors the traffic situation in front of the car, warning you when you get too close and even applying the brakes to prevent a collision.

You’ll also get adaptive cruise control, Side Assist (blind-spot monitoring), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) and Lane Assist.

The RCTA warns drivers while reversing of incoming objects at angles of 180 degrees, up to 50 metres and speeds up to speeds of 12 kmh.

There’s also a 360-degree view for parking convenience while other safety features include Post Collision Braking System that reduces the chance of a second collision after the initial impact; Intelligent Crash Response System (ICRS) that takes preventive measures during an accident by cutting fuel supply, unlocking doors and switching on hazard lights.

There are 5 colour options available for the Arteon; Manganese Grey, Lapiz Blue, Pyrite Silver, Deep Black and Oryx White.

As mentioned above, the added equipment comes with an increase in price by around RM 25k, bringing the new price to RM 301,012. This is inclusive of a 3 years free maintenance, 5 years unlimited mileage warranty and 5 years roadside assistance.